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- Tasks: Lead major planning projects and shape the future of Portsmouth.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and influence sustainable development in your city.
- Qualifications: Planning qualification and RTPI membership required; strong communication skills essential.
- Other info: Exciting infrastructure projects and a supportive work environment await you.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people-focussed. These values set out how we can contribute to the success of the council and our own success as individuals.
We are looking for a Principal Planning Officer to join our service. This is a full time, permanent role based at the Civic Offices, here in Portsmouth. We offer hybrid working where 2 days will be office based. This is an exciting time to come and join our Service, we are busy with major infrastructure projects across the city and you will be part of the team that will be unlocking housing and regeneration opportunities to shape the future of Portsmouth.
You will be responsible for dealing with Major/PPA applications, with a modest number of minor cases in addition. You will report and present cases to Planning Committee and handle any associated appeals where necessary, as well as providing guidance and advice to a wide range of customers inside and outside of the organisation. You will provide support and advice to junior members of the development management team.
The team is committed to delivering a responsive customer-focused service that brings forward sustainable development that meets the housing and employment needs of the City.
To apply, you must have:
- A relevant planning qualification
- Full membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) — this is essential
You will also need:
- Solid knowledge of planning legislation and experience working within Development Management
- A proven track record of handling development proposals successfully, including major applications
- Strong communication, negotiation and influencing skills
- The ability to lead on complex planning matters and support others in the team
- An understanding of local government, political sensitivities, and the role planning plays in delivering regeneration
- Experience in enforcement and a problem‑solving, proactive approach to work
- Confidence engaging with customers and partners, providing clear and accurate professional advice
If you would like to discuss this role in more detail with the hiring manager, please contact Nick Lloyd-Davies.
For more information about us and what we do, see our microsite: Join our planning team - Careers portal.
We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard. More information can be found at Equality, diversity and inclusion - Careers portal.
You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.
Principal Planning Officer in Hayling Island employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer in Hayling Island
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team and the projects they're working on! Research Portsmouth City Council's recent developments and major infrastructure projects. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to present cases and engage with various stakeholders. Try mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your ability to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees at Portsmouth City Council on LinkedIn or attend local planning events. Building relationships can give you insider knowledge about the role and may even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team and ready to contribute to shaping the future of Portsmouth.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer in Hayling Island
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Carefully: Before you start your application, make sure to read the job profile thoroughly. It’s packed with details about what we’re looking for in a Principal Planning Officer, and understanding these points will help you tailor your personal statement effectively.
Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Make sure to address each point in the 'Who is the Person' section with specific examples from your experience. We want to see how your skills and background align with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Principal Planning Officer, strong communication is key. Use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly. Whether it’s through your writing style or the examples you choose, let us see your skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the resources you need to support your application right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Brush up on your knowledge of planning legislation and local government processes. Being able to discuss relevant laws and how they apply to the role will show that you’re not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in the position.
✨Prepare Your Personal Statement
Make sure your personal statement is detailed and tailored to the job description. Use specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your skills in handling major applications and your ability to lead on complex planning matters.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since strong communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully engaged with customers and partners in the past, providing clear and accurate advice.
✨Understand the Council's Values
Familiarise yourself with Portsmouth City Council's core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and being people-focused. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they align with your approach to planning.
